Utility distribution system

ABSTRACT

An apparatus for use in a work space providing a base structure is disclosed. The apparatus includes a first end, a second end, an overhead structure, a partition, and a wheel assembly. The first end is coupled to the base structure. The second end is configured for movement relative to the base structure. The overhead structure is adjacent to the first end. The partition is adjacent to the second end. The wheel assembly is adjacent to the second end. The partition is configured to move from a first position to a second position in order to define space and to enhance privacy in the work space.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional application of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 09/887,519 titled “MOVABLE DISPLAY SUPPORT SYSTEM” filed Jun.22, 2001, the full and entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporatedherein by reference. This application is also a divisional applicationof U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/026,964 titled “UTILITYDISTRIBUTION SYSTEM” filed Dec. 21, 2001, which is a divisionalapplication of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/183,023 titled“WORKSTATION” filed Oct. 30, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,374,547, andwhich is also a divisional application of U.S. patent application Ser.No. 09/887,519 titled “MOVABLE DISPLAY SUPPORT SYSTEM” filed Jun. 22,2001, the full and entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporatedherein by reference.

This application claims the benefit of priority as available under 35U.S.C. §§ 120 and 121 to: (a) copending U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/026,964 titled “UTILITY DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM” filed Dec. 21, 2001; (b)U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/183,023 titled “WORKSTATION” filedOct. 30, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,374,547; and (c) U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/887,519 titled “MOVABLE DISPLAY SUPPORT SYSTEM”filed Jun. 22, 2001, the full and entire disclosures of which are herebyincorporated herein by reference.

The following U.S. patent applications are cited by reference and herebyincorporated herein by reference: (a) U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/182,998 titled “INFORMATION DISPLAY SYSTEM” filed Oct. 30, 1998; (b)U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/183,021 titled “WORK ENVIRONMENT”filed on Oct. 30, 1998; (c) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/182,997titled “DISPLAY BOARD SYSTEM” filed Oct. 30, 1998; (d) U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/182,999 titled “DISPLAY BOARD SYSTEM” filed Oct.30, 1998; (e) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/888,069 titled“MOVEABLE OFFICE SUPPORT SYSTEM” filed Jun. 22, 2001.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an utility distribution system adaptedfor use within a work environment providing one or more workstations.The present invention further relates to a support system for a utilitydistribution system which is movable within a work space to support oneor more workers in a wide variety of use conditions.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

It is well known in a large work environment to define a group workspace that may be divided or otherwise arranged to create one or morework areas for use by individual,workers or small groups of workers.Work areas are commonly configured to form one or more workstations, byarrangement of one or more articles of furniture, such as panel walls,worksurfaces, storage units, chairs or seating products, etc., typicallyin a manner intended to support workers in a wide variety of individualand group activities. Typically, such known arrangements are notoptimally suited for use in a dynamic work environment, where individualand team spaces are ideally capable of rapid configuration andreconfiguration by the workers themselves in a highly efficient manner,as needed for varied sets of individual or group activities. Recently,these dynamic work environments characterized by the need forflexibility, reconfigurable work areas, and the ability to support awide variety of activities of both individual workers and project teamsof varying sizes, have become prevalent and typically include moremobile forms of such articles of furniture.

All of these work spaces typically are required to accommodate a flow ofinformation, often presented in the form of documents, that is created,used or shared by the workers. Indeed, in known work environments, it iswell known to provide for the display of information to support theindividual or collaborative activities of one or more workers. Afundamental purpose of any system for the display of information is tofacilitate “information persistence”—to provide an organizationalframework for the presentation of information that freely enables thecollection of information, the presentation of information, and theretention of information as it becomes meaningful or useful to anindividual or group. This purpose is best served by a system that allowscurrent information to be prominently displayed and readily accessible.However, known arrangement for the display of information in any workenvironment, which typically utilize both vertical surfaces andhorizontal surfaces provided within the work environment, do not fullyachieve this or other purposes that are desirable. This is particularlytrue in a dynamic work environment.

In some typical work environments it is very common to displayinformation on “fixed” or “static” vertical surfaces, such asfull-height walls, partial-height panel walls, or the like. Fixed wallstypically provide for the territorial division of the work space, andincidentally provide a stable vertical surface for the prominent displayof information (e.g. space for “tiling” of information). However,because the amount of vertical wall surfaces available for use todisplay information is limited, the volume of information that can bedisplayed is limited. Moreover, fixed walls are not readilyreconfigurable to form work areas since reconfiguration of the workspace is generally a time-consuming and labor-intensive process beyondthe capability of the workers themselves and requiring a substantialamount of advance planning and the use of tools and other equipment.Because fixed walls are effectively immobile and are not typicallypositioned for the display of information, their efficiency is furtherlimited. In addition, the commonly known methods of presentinginformation on fixed walls of such known arrangements, for example, donot provide an organizational framework well suited to achieve anoptimal degree of information persistence. In many instances, accordingto commonly known arrangements, the visual effect or “scenery” providedin the work environment by information displayed on vertical walls andsurfaces tends to be static and constantly “on display,” rarely beingrefreshed or interchanged for example, when placing charts in relativelyinaccessible locations. In other instances, manner in which theinformation displayed on the vertical surface renders it fleeting andeasily defaced, for example when information is written on a whiteboard. That is, fixed walls are not able to adequately achieve optimum“information persistence” attributes, or to support thereconfigurability necessary in a dynamic work environment.

Accordingly, it would be advantageous to provide for a utilitydistribution system for use in a work environment that facilitates theefficient use, display and storage of information in the workenvironment. It would also be advantageous to provide for an informationdisplay system that more effectively facilitates “informationpersistence”—the collection and retention of information meaningful toan individual or group—so that information is readily available and canbe “revealed” when needed and yet can be “concealed” and convenientlystowed away securely when not needed. It would further be advantageousto provide for a workstation using the information display system andassociated structures (such as a utility distribution system) in orderto create work areas that can be readily configured and reconfigured foruse by individual workers, small groups or workers and large groups orworkers. It would further be advantageous to provide for a workenvironment including the information display system (and the utilitydistribution system) so that workstations and work areas can dynamicallybe configured and reconfigured. It would further be advantageous to havean information display system for use in a work environment that allowsthe efficient and complete transformation of the visual context of awork space or workstation during transitions between projects, tasks andpersonal respites in the course of a work day or work week.

It would be desirable to provide for a utility distribution systemhaving one or more of these or other advantageous features.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a movable apparatus for use in a workspace with at least one wall and a floor. The movable apparatus includesan overhead frame, an upstanding frame, and a partition. The overheadframe is coupled to the wall and projects into the work space. Theupstanding frame is supported by the floor and is movable relative tothe wall. The partition is coupled to the upstanding frame. Thepartition provides division of space within the work space. The privacywithin the work space can be modulated by movement of the partitionrelative to the wall.

The present invention further relates to an apparatus for use in a workspace providing a base structure. The apparatus includes a first end, asecond end, an overhead structure, a partition, and a wheel assembly.The first end is coupled to the base structure. The second end isconfigured for movement relative to the base structure. The overheadstructure is adjacent to the first end. The partition is adjacent to thesecond end. The wheel assembly is adjacent to the second end. Thepartition is configured to move from a first position to a secondposition in order to define space and to enhance privacy in the workspace.

DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of work space providing a utilitydistribution system according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a display support system accordingto an exemplary embodiment

FIGS. 3 and 4 are top perspective views of the support system.

FIGS. 5 and 6 are top perspective views of the display support systemwithin in a work station providing an article of furniture according toan exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of the support system.

FIG. 8 is a bottom perspective view of the support system display.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a work environment according to anexemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an information display system accordingto an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a work space provided in a conventionalwork environment.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a work space provided in a workenvironment including an information display system according to anexemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a workstation according to an exemplaryembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a workstation according to an exemplaryembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a workstation according to an exemplaryembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a workstation according to an exemplaryembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a front elevation view of a workstation according to anexemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a side elevation view of the workstation of FIG. 17.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a work environment according to anexemplary embodiment of the present invention providing a workstationconfigured for use by an individual worker.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the work environment of FIG. 19 whereinthe workstation has been configured for use by the individual worker.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the work environment of FIG. 19providing workstations configured for use by two workers workingindependently.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the work environment of FIG. 19providing workstations configured for use by three workers workingindependently.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the work environment of FIG. 19providing a workstation that has been configured for use by a group oftwo workers working collaboratively.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the work environment of FIG. 19 whereinthe workstation is configured for use by a group of five workers workingcollaboratively.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the work environment of FIG. 19 whereinthe workstation is being reconfigured by the rearrangement of displayboards.

FIG. 26 is a fragmentary perspective view of a workstation according toan exemplary embodiment in a secure condition.

FIG. 27 is a fragmentary perspective view of the workstation of FIG. 26in an open condition.

FIG. 28 is a fragmentary perspective view of the workstation of FIG. 26in an open condition.

FIG. 29 is a fragmentary perspective view of the workstation of FIG. 26in a substantially private condition.

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a work environment in a stowed andinactive condition.

FIG. 31 is a top plan view of the work environment of FIG. 30 in a firstactive condition.

FIG. 32 is a top plan view of the work environment of FIG. 30 in asecond active condition.

FIG. 33 is a top plan view of the work environment of FIG. 30 in a thirdactive condition.

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of the work environment of FIG. 33(without workers).

FIG. 35 is a perspective view of a workstation including a utilitythreshold and docking area according to a preferred embodiment.

FIG. 36 is a perspective view of a workstation including a utilitythreshold and docking area according to an alternative embodiment.

FIG. 37 is a perspective view of an information display system accordingto an alternative embodiment.

FIG. 38 is a schematic diagram of containers associated with aninformation display system according to an exemplary embodimentindicating the stop action arrangements for the display boardsassociated with the containers.

FIG. 39 is a schematic diagram of containers associated with aninformation display system according to an exemplary embodimentindicating the stop action arrangements for the display boardsassociated with the containers.

FIG. 40 is a schematic diagram of containers associated with aninformation display system according to an exemplary embodimentindicating the stop action arrangements for the display boardsassociated with the containers.

FIG. 41 is perspective view of a container of an information displaysystem according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 42 is a fragmentary exploded perspective view of the mountingassembly of the container of the information display system of FIG. 41.

FIG. 43 is a rear fragmentary elevation view of the mounting assembly.

FIG. 44 is a sectional plan view of the mounting assembly.

FIG. 45 is a sectional plan view of the mounting assembly.

FIG. 46 is a perspective view of the mounting assembly.

FIG. 47 is a fragmentary exploded perspective view of the container ofthe information display system of FIG. 41.

FIG. 48 is a fragmentary exploded perspective view of the container ofthe information display system of FIG. 41.

FIG. 49 is a fragmentary exploded perspective view of the container ofthe information display system of FIG. 41.

FIG. 50 is a fragmentary exploded perspective view of a containerassociated with an information display system according to a preferredembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 51 is a fragmentary exploded perspective view of a containerassociated with an information display system according to a preferredembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 52 is a fragmentary exploded perspective view of a containerassociated with an information display system according to a preferredembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 53 is a perspective view of the container of the informationdisplay system of FIG. 50 showing the installation of display boards.

FIG. 54 is a fragmentary perspective view of the container of FIGS. 50and 53.

FIG. 55 is a fragmentary exploded perspective view of an informationdisplay system according to an alternative embodiment.

FIG. 56 is a fragmentary exploded perspective view of a container of aninformation display system according to an alternative embodiment.

FIG. 57 is a schematic side elevation view of the container of FIG. 56.

FIG. 58 is a schematic side elevation view of the container of FIG. 56.

FIG. 59 is a schematic side elevation view of the container of FIG. 56.

FIG. 60 is a fragmentary perspective view of the container of FIGS. 57through 59 showing an arrangement for installing a mail slot.

FIG. 61 is a fragmentary perspective view of the container of FIGS. 57through 59 showing an arrangement for installing a mail slot.

FIG. 62 is a fragmentary sectional view of a display board associatedwith the container of the information display system of FIGS. 57 through59.

FIG. 63 is a perspective view of a workstation according to analternative embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 64 is a perspective view of a workstation according to analternative embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 65 is a perspective view of a workstation according to analternative embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 66 is a perspective view of a workstation according to analternative embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 67 is a fragmentary plan view of a hinge and rail arrangement forthe workstation of FIGS. 63 through 66.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED AND OTHER EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Referring to FIG. 1, a work space 1010 is shown including a workstation1012 configurable for use by one or a plurality of workers or otherpersons. Workstation 1012 includes a movable display support system 1014along with other articles of furniture shown as an associated mobileworksurface or table 1016, a fixed worksurface 1018, storage units shownas shelving units 1020 and lateral files 1022. Work space 1010 alsoprovides walls shown as partial height partition walls including a basewall 1024 and side walls 1026 as well as a utility distribution systemshown as a utility threshold 24 movable on a track 31 (not visible inFIG. 1). According to any preferred embodiment, the utility threshold isof a type disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/887,519titled “MOVABLE DISPLAY SUPPORT SYSTEM” filed Jun. 22, 2001 (the fulland entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein byreference), U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/183,023, titled“Workstation” and filed on Oct. 30, 1998 (the full and entire disclosureof which is hereby incorporated herein by reference), and in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/183,021, titled “Work Environment” and alsofiled on Oct. 30, 1998 (the full and entire disclosure of which ishereby incorporated herein by reference), providing functionality andfeatures such as power, voice and data connections, display devices orinformation display panels (e.g. shown as display device 1027 in FIG.1), lighting, privacy screens, etc. Also shown in work space 1010 arechairs 1032 (which can be of any conventional type, preferably mobilechairs). As shown, movable display support system 1014 includes twodisplay devices shown as display panels 44.

Referring to FIG. 2, movable display support system 1014 is shown.Support system 1014 includes a base 1036 mounted to a track system 1038for translating movement (e.g. linear or curved or other) along a pathof travel. Track system 1038 is installed upon a mounting structureshown as a panel 1040 (shown in FIG. 3). A passage in panel 1040 shownas groove 1041 can be used for routing various cables to base 1036.Support system 1014 also includes a display support assembly 1042movably coupled to the base 1036. Support assembly 1042 includes flanges1044 configured for attachment of a fixture or structure shown as anarticulable arm 1046 used to support an information display device shownas a display panel 44 (or any other structure such as a base or fixtureof any conventional type providing one or more points or “joints” formovement of a mounted display device). According to an exemplaryembodiment, support assembly 1042 is pivotably coupled to base 1036 andeach articulable arm 1046 is movably coupled to flange 1044 to allowsuitably positioning and/or orientation of display panel 44 in any of avariety of directions (e.g., up, down, laterally, pivotably) at eachpoint or joint allowing articulation (e.g. translation, extension,retraction, rotation, etc.). As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the selectivemovement of base 1036 with respect to the mounting structure shown aspanel 1040 (e.g. along track system 1038) and/or of support assembly1042 with respect to base 1036 provides for the positioning andorientation of one or more of display panels 44 within a substantialrange of motion in work space 1010; selective movement of display panel44 with respect to support assembly 1042 provides for additional rangeof motion within work space 1010.

According to an exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, panel 1040for track system 1038 is installed horizontally between two storageunits 1048; a worksurface 1050 may be installed within work space 1010over track system 1038. According to any preferred embodiment, thesystem may be integrated with or within articles of furniture in thework space.

Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, movable display support system 1014 is shownin a reverse view so that the underside of base 1036 is visible. Base1036 includes a set of passages 1052 and an aperture 1054 for routing ofcables 1056 (for utilities such as power, communication and/or data,which may be routed to base 1036 through passage or groove 1041 of panel1040) to each of display panels 44. Base 1036 also includes a hub 1058providing paths or slots 1060 for maintaining or retaining cables 1056below the coupling of display support assembly 1042. As shown in FIG. 7,track system 1038 includes a set of tracks or rails 1062 providing forguided and bounded motion of base 1036. As shown in FIG. 8, a set ofroller guides 1064 on base 1036 engage rails 1062 of track system 1038.According to a particularly preferred embodiment, hub 1058 is rotatablewithin base 1036 and display support assembly 1042 is mounted to hub1058 to allow for rotation of display panels 44. Display supportassembly 1042 may provide a worksurface 1066 as well as a handle 1068(both shown in FIG. 2) to facilitate movement of the display devices.

According to any preferred embodiment, the system will provide for awide range of motion for one or more display devices, including one ormore of the following arrangements or combinations of arrangements forpositioning and repositioning: (a) translating movement of the basealong the track system, e.g. from one part of the work space to anotherfor open use or stowing (see FIGS. 3 and 4); (b) rotation of the displaysupport assembly within a range of motion, e.g. to allow open viewing orprivacy or stowing of the display device (see FIGS. 2 and 3 and 4); (c)articulation of the structure or arm, e.g. further to optimize theviewing angle/position (such as to remove glare or enhance visibility)of the display screen or further to enhance sharing/revealing orprivacy/concealment of information. According to any preferredembodiment, the wide range of motion provided by the system will enhancethe ability of workers or other persons to work collaboratively or tomaintain privacy with information or to open or stow the display device(or display devices) conveniently—relatively quickly and easily—andwithout requiring significant concern for management of cables.

According to alternative embodiments, the movable display support systemmay be configured for one information display device or two or moreinformation display devices; the information display devices may be ofany type, including flat display panels or other types of video monitors(e.g. CRT) or any other type of data or information display device orappliance. The information display device may be associated with anytype of appliance or device, such as a computing device or a televisionor network, etc.

In a conventional arrangement for associating a display device within awork space, where the display device is positioned on a fixedworksurface, constraints are typically imposed upon the orientation of auser or users relative to the entrance of the work space or adjacentaisles or opportunities for potential shared zones for viewing thedisplay device with others. For example, if the display device ispositioned on a worksurface to the back (or in one side or back corner)of the work space, the user of the work space may be constrained to workwith her or his back to the entrance of the work space and informationon the display device may be visible to those who enter the work spaceor walk along the adjacent aisle; if the display device is positioned ona worksurface near the center or front of the work space, the user ofthe work space may be constrained to “work around” the display deviceand may be less able to share information on the display device withthose who enter the work space.

According to any preferred embodiment, the support system will provideenhanced functionality in comparison with such conventionalarrangements, and allow the display device (or display devices) to bepositioned selectively to enhance privacy or openness, or generally tofacilitate the work to be performed in the work space; the supportsystem is intended to allow the repositioning (including physicalplacement and orientation) of the display device to suit the needs ofthe worker. That is, according to any preferred embodiment of thesupport system, the user or users (without having to adapt or adjusttheir own posture and/or position) will be able to adapt the positioningand orientation of the display device or devices for various useconditions.

According to other exemplary embodiments, the display devices may beassociated with other articles of furniture and/or physical structures(such as panels, partitions, or walls) (e.g. a utility threshold 24shown with display device 1027, and wall panels 1070 in FIG. 1). It isimportant to note that the term “article of furniture” is intended to bea broad term and not a term of limitation. The term “article offurniture,” as used in this disclosure, may include, without limitation:systems furniture (e.g., partition wall systems, architectural walls,space frames, work stations, etc.), casegoods (e.g., file cabinets,storage bins, containers, closets, etc.), seating products (e.g.,chairs, stools, lounges, etc.), work surfaces (e.g., tables, desksystems, credenzas, etc.), lighting systems, and other accessories.

ADDITIONAL EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Referring to the FIGURES, an information display system is shown for usein association with a work environment that may include one or moreworkstations according to preferred and other exemplary embodiments ofthe present invention. For purposes of any exemplary or alternativeembodiments of the present invention, the work environment may be of anytype generally providing a work space for one or more workers. The workspace may be divided or otherwise arranged to provide one or more workareas for use by the workers, who may be engaged in any of a widevariety of individual activities or group activities, for example, asmay be performed by members of a project team or department.Workstations may be configured within the work environment by includingone or more articles of furniture within the work areas in support ofthe workers and their activities. As indicated in FIGURES, theinformation display system may be adapted for use within the workenvironment or included workstations in wide variety of arrangements,each intended to support individual or collaborative activities of oneor more workers, for example, by facilitating the efficient creation,use and storage of information or the configuration and reconfigurationof work areas for the activities.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the work environmentwill be defined at least partially by architectural walls and/or asystem of panel walls, such as partial height partitions, any of whichmay provide a mounting structure for the information display system. Aswill be shown with reference to exemplary embodiments, the workenvironment and associated workstations may be arranged to include anyof a wide variety of articles of furniture and other associatedelements, including additional panel walls configured in any of a widevariety of orientations, chairs or other seating products, storage orcasegoods products, tables and other worksurfaces, lighting products orsystems, as well as other accessories, electronic or computing equipmentand other systems (with associated connectivity such as cabling) knownand used in the work environment. According to alternative embodiments,any one or more articles of furniture may provide a mounting structurefor the information display system.

Referring to FIG. 9, a work environment 2 a defining a work space isshown according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.Work areas including workstations 4 a and 4 b are provided within thework space defined by work environment 2 a. Workstations 4 a and 4 b,formed along a vertical panel wall 282 standing on a floor 118, can beconfigured for use by one or more workers 114 (two workers are shownworking independently in separate work areas) and to include one or morearticles of furniture. Workstation 4 a includes a shelving unit 14, amobile table 16 and a chair 18; workstation 4 b includes a mobile filecart 20, mobile table 16 and chair 18. Work environment 2 a alsoincludes an information display system 6 and a utility threshold 24 thatcan be associated with either of workstations 4 a and 4 b.

Information display system 6 includes a plurality ofinformation-containing structures shown as containers 8. Each container8 provides two lateral panels shown as a right display panel 44 and aleft display panel 44; each display panel 44 provides one exteriorsurface 40 and one interior surface 42; each container 8 thus providestwo exterior surfaces 40 and two interior surfaces 42 for the display orpresentation of information. Each container 8 is coupled to a tracksystem shown as a set of horizontal rails 30 mounted to a mountingstructure shown as panel wall 282 through a mounting assembly. Accordingto a particularly preferred embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, the mountingassembly includes a slide mechanism configured to allow for translatingmovement of the container along the track system and a pivot mechanismconfigured to allow for pivotal movement of each display panel about avertical axis with respect to the mounting structure. According to anypreferred embodiment, each display panel of the container is coupled tothe pivot mechanism so that either display panel can be pivoted withrespect to the other display panel. A docking area 38 shown asassociated with shelving unit 14 provides a defined and partiallycovered space or envelope for convenient stowing of one or morecontainers 8 (as well as other articles of furniture, such as mobiletable 16) within workstation 4 a.

Utility threshold 24 is coupled to a track system shown as a horizontalrail 31 mounted on the side of panel wall 282. Utility threshold 24 isformed of an “L”-shaped frame with a horizontal frame member shown as ahorizontal beam 49 and a vertical frame member shown as post 50. Utilitythreshold 24 includes a mounting assembly 52 a having a slide mechanism54 (including one or more glide blocks) engaging horizontal rail 31, anda canopy 55 associated with light fixtures 56 attached to beam 49;utility threshold 24 also includes a floor wheel assembly (e.g. shown asa caster 58 or the like) at the base of post 50. As shown, utilitythreshold 24 is configured for sliding movement along panel wall 282 onhorizontal rail 31 and rolling movement along floor 118 on wheelassembly. According to any particularly preferred embodiment, theutility threshold is configured to supply utilities (i.e., voice, power,data, etc.) or connectivity to utilities for use in the work area, seeFIGS. 35 and 36.

It should be noted that according to any preferred embodiment, theinformation display system and its associated elements can be readilyand easily be arranged to configure or reconfigure one or moreworkstations or work areas of varying sizes within the work space givenin a work environment, for example by selective arrangement of thecontainers and/or display panels of the information display system, theutility threshold, and the docking area and other associated articles offurniture, to support one or more workers in individual or groupactivities. According to alternative embodiments, the docking area maybe provided by any of a wide variety of structures or articles offurniture, alone or in combination, that have been arranged to provide aspace where containers and/or display panels and articles of furniturecan be stowed. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 9, two workstations 4a and 4 b have been formed, each configured to support individualworkers 114 engaged in independent work using information presented ondisplay panels provided by the information display system.

As shown in FIG. 9 and other FIGURES, information contained on displaypanels may selectively be revealed or concealed, for example, byselective arrangement of the relative positions of the containers withrespect to other containers or associated articles of furniture or byselective arrangement of the pivotal condition of the display panelsassociated with the containers. When the display panels are oriented sothat the interior surface of one display panel of the container is drawnadjacent to and in parallel alignment with respect to the other displaypanel of the container, the container is said to be in a “closed”condition and information contained on either of the interior surfacesis said to be “concealed.” When one display panel of the container ispivoted about the vertical axis out of parallel alignment with respectto the other display panel of the container, the container is said to bein an “open” condition and information contained on both of the interiorsurfaces is said to be “revealed” (if not otherwise obstructed orconcealed from view). Each display panel of the container mayindependently be pivoted 90 degrees from the closed condition; when eachdisplay panel has been pivoted 90 degrees so that the display panels are180 degrees opposed, the container is in a “fully open” condition andinformation on both interior surfaces is “revealed”, while informationon both exterior surfaces is “concealed”. Referring to FIG. 9,containers 8 are closed and containers 8 a and 8 b are partially open(with one display panel pivoted 90 degrees with respect to the otherdisplay panel); no containers are shown fully open. As can be seen anynumber of combined orientations of display panels can cause informationto be “revealed” or “concealed” depending on whether a given surface isvisible. As will be shown, a display panel may include or be made up ofone or more display boards, typically selectively removable boards orsheets that contain information intended for display or to whichinformation may be applied.

FIG. 10 shows the basic elements of information display systems 6 a and6 b according to a first exemplary embodiment and a second exemplaryembodiment. According to the first exemplary embodiment, informationdisplay system 6 a includes containers 8 having a mounting assembly 32configured for attachment to horizontal rails 30. According to thesecond exemplary embodiment, information display system 6 b includescontainers 9 having a mounting assembly 33 configured for attachment toa track system including a single horizontal rail 30. As shown, bothmounting assembly 32 and mounting assembly 33 also allow for pivotalmovement of associated containers 8 and 9, respectively, with respect tothe respective mounting structure. According to the first exemplaryembodiment, each container 8 a provides two pivotally coupled displaypanels 44 (i.e. as shown in FIG. 9). According to the second exemplaryembodiment, each container 9 includes a single display panel 44 a thatprovides two exterior surfaces 40 (but no interior surfaces). Singledisplay panel 44 a is coupled to mounting assembly 33 to allow forpivotal movement with respect to the mounting structure. As is evident,according to either exemplary embodiment, information contained on anexterior surface of a display panel of a container is ordinarilyrevealed and visible but may be concealed when that container ispositioned closely adjacent to another container (or when positioned ina suitable docking area or closely adjacent to a wall or other articleof furniture). According to any preferred embodiment, regardless of thenumber of display panels, the information display system will includecontainers that selectively allow information presented on the displaypanels to be revealed and concealed.

As shown in FIGS. 10 and 12, containers 8 of information display system6 provide for the display of information in a space-efficient, verticalorientation. As a result, by use of the information display system, thetotal vertically-oriented and prominent space available for display ofinformation within a work environment can be increased in comparison toconventional work environments that do not include the informationdisplay system. Referring to FIG. 11, a conventional work environment 2x is shown as a room (i.e. for purposes of example, a room of 18 feet by21 feet in dimension). Conventional work environment 2 x includes fourvertical walls (visible are three walls 282) and floor 118; conventionalwork environment 2 x has a fixed amount of vertical wall display areaand a fixed amount of work space or floor space. As shown, with each ofthree walls 282 in use, conventional work environment 2 x may contain afixed number of display boards 10 (e.g. shown to be 19 display boards),which may be mounted to the walls, hung along the walls, or in a slidingmounting interface, etc. (in any event each display board is parallel tothe wall on which it is mounted). (For purposes of example, each displayboard is 3 feet by 4 feet in dimension.) Referring to FIG. 12, a workenvironment 2 y is shown as a room including an information displaysystem 6 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.Although work environment 2 y is otherwise identical in size toconventional work environment 2 x, and therefore has the same amount ofvertical wall display area and floor space, installation of informationdisplay system 6 on a single wall 282 has substantially increased thenumber of display boards 10 that may be contained in work environment 2y. As shown in the exemplary embodiment, information display system 6presents a total number of 112 display boards 10 (four associated withcorresponding display panels of each of 28 containers) on single wall282; in conventional work environment 2 x, single wall 282 presentedonly seven display. boards 10 (while use of all three visible wallspresented only a total of 19 display boards). As shown in comparison ofFIGS. 11 and 12, and according to any preferred embodiment, theinformation display system increases the amount of information that canbe presented for display within a work environment giving an otherwisefixed amount of wall space or vertical surface area. As shown in FIG. 12and other FIGURES, the information display system also facilitates themanagement of a comparatively large volume of information for access,display and storage in a given work environment.

Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, an exemplary embodiment of a workstation 4d including an information display system 6 is shown. Informationdisplay system 6 has containers 8 d, 8 e, 8 f, 8 g, 8 h, 8 i, 8 j, and 8k attached for movement along set of rails 30 mounted on a base panelwall 280. FIGS. 17 and 18 illustrate the spatial relationship betweenthe containers, utility threshold 24, shelving unit 14 providing adocking area 38 a, as well as worker 114 and other articles offurniture, including panel wall 280, a table 16, chair 18, and a mobilefile cart 20, in workstation 4 d. As shown in FIG. 17, worker 114 isseated in chair 18 at table 16 which provides a horizontal worksurface66 directly beneath open container 8 g, so that worker 114 is “immersed”in the information presented at display boards 10 a and 10 b much like aworker would be in relation to information posted on the relativelyfixed walls of a conventional workstation. According to a particularlypreferred embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the containers areconfigured and installed to allow for free movement along the tracksystem within the workstation above the height of horizontalworksurfaces and other articles of furniture within the work area, yetbelow the associated utility thresholds or other structures.

As shown in FIG. 18, container 8 g includes mounting assembly 32configured to allow for translating movement along set of rails 30mounted on the side of panel wall 280. Mounting assembly 32 includes aset of slide mechanisms 34 (each shown as including a glide block) thatengage corresponding set of rails 30. Mounting assembly 32 also includesa pivot mechanism 36 allowing independent pivotal movement of eachdisplay panel 44 of container 8 g with respect to panel wall 280 (see,e.g., FIGS. 38 through 40 and 42 through 46) from the closed conditionto the fully open condition. Container 8 may include a locking mechanism48 that can be engaged to hold container 8 in the closed condition;locking mechanism 48 has elements associated with each display panel ofthe container that must be disengaged to allow container 8 to be opened(see, e.g., FIG. 49).

Also as shown in FIG. 18, utility threshold 24 includes a mountingassembly 52 configured to allow for translating movement along a tracksystem shown as rail 31 mounted on the top of panel wall 280. Mountingassembly 52 includes slide mechanism 54 shown as including a glide block102 that engages rail 31. Mounting assembly 52 also includes a utilityinfeed shown as a flexible conduit 74 within a trough or recess 106 inthe top of panel wall 280 to allow utilities (e.g. voice, power, data,etc.) to be supplied from panel wall 280 by or through utility threshold24 into workstation 4 d (see also FIGS. 35 and 36). Horizontal beam 49of utility threshold 24 is shown positioned at an elevation above theother articles of furniture within workstation 4 d; horizontal beam 49also includes canopy 55 and lighting fixtures 56 for illuminatingworkstation 4 d. Vertical post 50 of utility threshold 24 is shownpositioned at a lateral distance outboard of the other articles offurniture within workstation 4 d; vertical post 50 also includes caster58 for rolling on floor 118 to facilitate movement of utility threshold24 along track 31; vertical post 50 may also provide one or moreconnections for voice, power and data for use within workstation 4 d(see, e.g., FIGS. 35 and 36). Utility threshold 24 is free to move alongtrack 31 without interference from either the containers (e.g.containers 8 d, 8 e, 8 f, 8 g, 8 h, 8 i, 8 j, and 8 k) or shelving unit14 (which provides docking area 38 a for the containers). Utilitythreshold 24 itself may be considered to be “docked” when positionedover shelving unit 14. According to alternative embodiments, the utilitythreshold may be “docked” within a docking area provided by a structurethat is larger that the utility threshold or that otherwise is wholly orpartially capable of containment of the utility threshold (as well ascontainers).

Referring to FIGS. 13 through 16, a workstation 4 c with an associatedinformation display system 6 is shown in a work environment according toan exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Workstation 4 cincludes base panel wall 280 and docking area 38 a shown as two panelwall sections 62 and 64 (e.g. partial height walls forming a covering“panel wrap”) for containers 8 d, 8 e, 8 f, 8 g, 8 h, 8 i, 8 j, and 8 kof information display system 6. Workstation 4 c also includes a mobiletable 16 and a mobile storage unit 260. A decorative surface orfunctional surface treatment (e.g. shown as a dry-erase “white” board288) may be installed on base panel wall 280 between rails 30, toprovide an additional vertical surface within workstation 4 c adaptedfor the display of information.

FIGS. 13 through 16 illustrate the ability of the information displaysystem 6 to effect an efficient and complete transformation of thevisual context or “scenery” of a work area shown as includingworkstation 4 c, for example between projects, tasks and personalrespites in the course of a work day or work week, etc. Both theterritorial appearance (e.g. space allocation or division or orientationof workers) and the contextual appearance (e.g. the nature and purposeof the information, whether functional or decorative) of the workstationmay be altered using the information display system, depending upon theinformation and content and association of each container with othercontainers and with articles of furniture within the workstation.According to any preferred embodiment, the information display systemfacilitates both “physical”/territorial reconfiguration and“visual”/contextual reconfiguration within the work environment or theworkstation in several ways, including the following: by physicalmovement of the containers (not only to divide the work space into workareas of varying sizes but also to reveal or conceal informationpresented on the interior surfaces or exterior surfaces of thecontainers); by opening and closing the containers to reveal or concealinformation presented on the interior surfaces or exterior surfaces ofthe containers; by changing the display boards associated with thecontainers; or by revising or modifying the information presented on thedisplay boards. According to any preferred embodiment, the informationdisplay system will include display panels that are capable ofarrangement, as well as that are sized and proportioned, to evoke aspatial sensation of envelopment and immersiveness for individualworkers or groups of workers viewing the information presented. Asevident in FIGS. 13 through 16, it is not necessary to move panel wallsand other articles of furniture that are generally considered “fixed”once installed in the work environment (or are not otherwise readilyrepositioned).

As shown in FIGS. 13 through 16, the “scenery” presented withinworkstation 4 c by information display system 6 including eightcontainers is readily reconfigurable. In FIG. 13, all eight containersare stowed within docking area 38 a so that only one exterior surface 40of one container 8 k is visible; exterior surface 40 bears a decorativeimage 69 a. In FIG. 14, one container 8 k has been moved from dockingarea 38 a to a docking area 38 b (an uncovered but identifiable spaceabove a mobile storage unit 21); two containers 8 j and 8 k are open sothat four interior surfaces 42 a, 42 b and 42 c are visible withinworkstation 4 c (although only three interior surfaces are visible inFIG. 14), along with one exterior surface 40; one functional image 71 aand three decorative images 69 a, 69 b and 69 c are shown. In FIG. 15,two containers 8 k and 8 j have been moved from docking area 38 a todocking area 38 b; two containers 8 j and 8 i are open so that fourinterior surfaces 42 c, 42 d and 42 e are visible within workstation 4 c(although only three interior surfaces are visible in FIG. 15), alongwith one exterior surface 40; three functional images 71 a, 71 b, and 71c and one decorative image 69 d are shown. In FIG. 16, four containers 8k, 8 j, 8 h, and 8 i have been moved from docking area 38 a to dockingarea 38 b; two containers 8 h and 8 g are open so that four interiorsurfaces 42 f, 42 g and 42 h are visible within workstation 4 c(although only three interior surfaces are visible in FIG. 16), alongwith one exterior surface 40; three functional images 71 d, 71 e, and 71f and one decorative image 69 e are shown.

It should be noted that the information, images and arrangements shownin FIGS. 13 through 16 are only exemplary (and essentially schematic).According to any preferred embodiment, the interior surfaces andexterior surfaces of the display panels associated with the containersmay be provided with any of a wide variety of information and images,functional and/or decorative, in whole or in part, intended to provideone or more workers with an atmosphere that facilitates project work,instruction, rest and rejuvenation, etc. The workstation may itselfinclude a greater or lesser number of containers and/or display panels,capable of movement and association in any of a wide variety ofarrangements.

Referring to FIGS. 19 through 34, exemplary embodiments of workenvironments and workstations including the information display systemare shown. As shown in the FIGURES, both the territorial appearance(i.e. arrangement) and contextual appearance of the work environment andassociated workstations can be readily and easily be configured andreconfigured by arrangement of basic elements of the information displaysystem, the utility threshold and other mobile articles of furniture.Space division, or “territorial” reconfiguration of work spaces and workareas, will not require rearrangement of any “fixed” elements, such aspanel walls and other articles of furniture that are generallyconsidered to be “fixed” once installed in the work environment insofaras substantial effort (e.g. disassembly, lifting, etc.) or tools arerequired for movement. Additionally, territorial reconfiguration willnot require individual display panels to be detached from theinformation display system and be independently rearranged. Visualmodification, or “contextual” reconfiguration of work spaces and workareas of varying sizes can likewise be effected without rearrangement ofany “fixed” elements within the work environment or needing toindependently handle detached display panels. According to any preferredembodiment, following initial installation of the “fixed” articles offurniture and information display system and associated elements withinthe work environment, the individual worker or workers may selectivelyconfigure or reconfigure the work space into one or more work areas andworkstations, or may selectively arrange the containers to reveal orconceal information presented on the associated display panels, asneeded to support their activity or activities. As a result, and asshown in FIGS. 19 through 34, the work environment is capable offlexible and dynamic configuration and reconfiguration to support a widevariety of workers engaged in a wide variety of tasks and activitiesthat may require creation, use and storage of even a large volume ofinformation.

FIGS. 19 through 25 show a work environment 2 c in the form of anindividual or small group work space. Work environment 2 c includes basepanel wall 280 and two end panel walls 290 and 292, with shelving unit14 at each lateral end (and each considered to be “fixed” structures),defining two generally symmetrical work spaces 3 a and 3 b (one workspace on each side of base panel wall 280), which, for purposes ofexample, can be considered to provide a fixed amount of floor space(e.g. 6 feet by 16 feet in dimension). Work space 3 a includes aninformation display system 6 a including a plurality of containers 8 d,8 e, 8 f, 8 g, 8 h, 8 i, 8 j, and 8 k. Work space 3 a also providesdocking areas 38 a and 38 b for the containers defined by end panelwalls 290 and 292 and associated shelving units 14. Work space 3 afurther includes mobile table 16 and one or more chairs 18. Using FIGS.19 through 25, work space 3 a of work environment 2 c will illustratefeatures provided by information display system 6 a according to anexemplary embodiment of the present invention, including theconfiguration of work areas and workstations for use by one or moreworkers, and arrangements of containers for revealing and concealinginformation presented on display panels (i.e. interior surfaces andexterior surfaces) associated with the containers.

Referring to FIG. 19, work space 3 a is configured to provide a workarea with a single workstation 4 e in use by a single worker 114, seatedon chair 18 at table 16 near docking area 38 a. Worker 114 has openedcontainers 8 f and 8 g while other containers are closed; two containersare stowed in each docking area 38 a and 38 b. Worker 114 has availableuse of a floor space section 118 a (shown in phantom lines)corresponding to the entire amount of fixed floor space provided in workspace 3 a; however a working portion 119 (shown in phantom lines) of thework space in actual use by worker 114 is a fraction of the floor spacesection 118 a. As shown in FIG. 20, worker 114 has reconfiguredworkstation 4 e but still has use of floor space section 118 a. Worker114 is working at open containers 8 i and 8 j and has moved with table16 and chair 18 to the center of work space, closer to docking area 38b. Five containers 8 d, 8 e, 8 f, 8 g, and 8 h are closed and have beenmoved near docking area 38 a (with three containers “docked”); twocontainers 8 j and 8 k are closed and have been “docked” in docking area38 b. Working portion 119 of the work area in actual use by worker 114is slightly larger than in FIG. 19 (and has been shifted to the oppositeend of workstation 4 e).

Referring to FIG. 21, work space 3 a is configured to provide two workareas and two workstations 4 f and 4 g for two workers 114 c and 114 dshown sharing the fixed floor space but working independently. Opencontainer 8 g and closed container 8 h form a “boundary” betweenworkstations 4 f and 4 g. Worker 114 c seated in chair 18 a at table 16a and working at open container 8 f has use of one floor space section118 b (shown in phantom lines); worker 114 d seated in chair 18 b and inthe process of moving container 8 h has use of another floor spacesection 118 c (shown in phantom lines). Each worker 114 c and 114 d hasthree containers within docking areas 38 a and 38 b, respectively.Referring to FIG. 22, work space 3 a is configured for independent useby three workers 114 g, 114 h and 114 i in three work areas. Worker 114g (standing) occupies floor space section 118 i (shown in phantom lines)at the center of work space 3 a and is working at open container 8 h andclosed container 8 g. Workers 114 h and 114 i are seated and are workingat display boards near docking areas 38 b and 38 a, respectively, infloor space sections 118 k and 118 j (shown in phantom lines),respectively.

Referring to FIG. 23, work space 3 a has been configured to provide aworkstation 4 h used by a small group of two workers 114 e (standing)and 114 f (seated) working collaboratively in a dyad at an opencontainer 8 g (partially opened at a 45 degree angle) and sharinginformation presented on display boards 10 a and 10 b (i.e. interiorsurfaces). Open container 8 g defines a central floor space section 118d (shown in phantom lines). At either side of open container 8 g aredefined floor space sections 118 e and 118 f not in use by workers 114 eand 114 f, but within which are located other containers. Referring toFIG. 24, work space 3 a is configured to provide a single workstation 4i in use by a large group of workers 114 (e.g. a project team conductinga meeting). As shown, a floor space section 118 g (shown in phantomlines) used by a group of workers 114 has extended outside of the fixedfloor space provided within work space 3 a. Attention of workers 114 isdirected to a fully open container 8 g presenting information of sharedinterest on display boards 10 a and 10 b (i.e. interior surfaces) at thecenter of work space 3 a; open containers 8 f and 8 h are also in usedirectly adjacent to fully open container 8 g; remaining containers arestowed in docking areas 38 a and 38 b.

Referring to FIG. 25, work space 3 a is shown in a transition orreconfiguration state with a display board 10 b being removed fromcontainer 8 g by a worker 114 j. Another worker 114 k is removingdisplay boards 10 c for alternative use or storage. Another worker 114 mis bringing replacement display boards 10 d (of a smaller size) forinstallation on containers 8 g and 8 f. As shown in FIGS. 19 through 25collectively, and according to any preferred embodiment, the informationdisplay system 6 a allows for several “methods” of selectivetransformation of physical space and visual effect within a work space:division of physical space and/or alteration of visual effect bymovement of containers (e.g. in association with other containers and/orarticles of furniture); division of physical space and/or alteration ofvisual effect by opening or closing containers to reveal and concealinformation; alteration of visual effect by removal and replacement, forexample interchange, of display boards associated with a container; andalteration of visual effect by revising the content of information (e.g.rewriting, erasing, posting) on display boards associated with acontainer.

FIGS. 26 through 29 show in a work environment workstation 4 i of a typesimilar to that shown in FIGS. 19 and 20 configured for a single worker(not shown) according to an exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention. Workstation 4 i includes base panel wall 280, shelving unit14 providing docking area 38 a for containers 8 d, 8 e, 8 f, 8 g, 8 h, 8i, 8 j, and 8 k of information display system 6, and mobile table 16.Workstation 4 i also includes utility threshold 24 coupled to the top ofpanel wall 280 on track 30 for sliding movement. As shown in FIGS. 26and 29, workstation 4 i also includes a retractable partition shown as aprivacy screen 78 (e.g. of a type similar to a tambour door according tothe exemplary embodiment, but of any type of screen material accordingto various alternative embodiments). Privacy screen 78 is installedwithin a vertical recess 80 in shelving unit 14 and can selectively bewithdrawn from recess 80 (as shown in FIGS. 26 and 29) or retracted intorecess 80 (as shown in FIGS. 27 and 28) by a handle 82 (which mayinclude a locking element such as a hook or clasp to retain privacyscreen 78 in engagement with a coacting locking element associated withthe panel wall or utility threshold or other structure). As shown inFIG. 26, with containers 8 d, 8 e, 8 f, 8 g, 8 h, 8 i, 8 j, and 8 kstowed in docking area 38 a and utility threshold 24 stowed over dockingarea 38 a, privacy screen 78 can be withdrawn (e.g. drawn across theentry to docking area) to conceal and secure the containers and anyarticles of furniture within docking area 38 a. Workstation 4 i istherefore in a secured condition (for example, secured compactly withina 3 feet by 7 feet dimensional footprint). In FIG. 27, privacy screen 78(not visible) has been retracted into vertical recess 80 so that thecontents of docking area 38 a, containers 8 d, 8 e, 8 f, 8 g, 8 h, 8 i,8 j, and 8 k and a mobile storage unit 260, are visible. In FIG. 28,workstation is “open” with fully open container 8 f and open container 8g visible and mobile table 16 and mobile storage unit 260 also visibleand available for use. In FIG. 29, utility threshold 24 is deployed(moved along its track) to provide a docking area 38 c for a closedcontainer 8 g above mobile storage unit 260. Privacy screen 78 iswithdrawn toward vertical post 50 of utility threshold 24 to define afloor space section 118 m (shown in phantom lines) within which a worker(not shown) can have at least a limited amount of privacy. According toany preferred embodiment, as shown, the retractable partition can be ofany material or construction and is configured to provide for security(e.g. in an unoccupied or closed workstation) and privacy (in anoccupied workstation).

FIGS. 30 through 34 show a work environment 2 d in the form of a workspace shown as project team space 3 c configurable to support workersengaged in both individual and group activities by providing work areassuited for the activities. Work environment 2 d includes a set of basepanel walls 280 each including information display system 6. Eachinformation display system 6 includes a plurality of containers 8 d, 8e, 8 f, 8 g, 8 h, 8 i, 8 j, and 8 k and 8 m, 8 n, 8 p, 8 q, 8 r, 8 s, 8t, and 8 u (adapted for movement along rails 30) and two pairs ofutility thresholds 24 a and 24 b and 24 c and 24 d (adapted for movementalong rails 31). Work environment 2 d includes shelving units 14, aswell as a panel wall section 88 (“L”-shaped “panel wrap”) and a panelwall section 90 (“T”-shaped “panel wrap”), each configured to providedocking areas 38 a and 38 b for the containers and the utilitythresholds. Also included in work environment 2 d are mobile tables 16,mobile storage units 260, and mobile file carts 20.

In FIG. 30, work environment 2 d is shown in an inactive condition, forexample, as may typically be the case late in the evening or very earlyin the morning, when no workers are present. All of the containers andeach of the utility thresholds are secured and stowed in theirrespective docking areas. In FIGS. 31 through 34, work environment 2 dis shown in various exemplary active conditions. In FIG. 31, fourworkers 114 n, 114 m, 114 p and 114 q have arrived in work environment 2d and are at work independently, for example, as may typically be thecase in the morning in preparation for a large meeting. Work space 3 chas been divided into floor space sections 118 m, 118 n, 118 p and 118 qfor independent use by each worker 114 n, 114 m, 114 p and 114 q,respectively. Worker 114 n is at work in what has been configured as anopen and relatively large workstation 4 j; workers 114 m and 114 p areat work in what have been configured as open and intermediately sizedworkstations 4 k and 4 m, respectively; worker 114 q is at work in arelatively small, but private workstation 4 n (using privacy screen 78(shown in phantom lines)). Each worker has deployed containers andutility thresholds for purposes of using information and establishingthe division of fixed floor space within work environment 2 d. In FIG.32, a large group of workers 114 has arrived in work environment 2 d,for example, as may typically be the case during a project team (e.g.large group) meeting. Containers 8 f through 8 h and 8 n through 8 q aredeployed and opened to provide for maximum exposure of informationpresented on associated display boards (e.g. in the sense of a “theatredisplay”). A large team meeting space occupying a large central floorspace section 118 has been created by the arrangement of the containersand utility thresholds, and most workers are present in the team meetingspace. Three workers 114 r, 114 s, and 114 t are each workingindependently in three separate floor space sections 118 r, 118 s, and118 t, respectively, near docking stations 38 a and 38 b (for example,as may be the case if retrieving or preparing a display board for laterpresentation in the team meeting space).

In FIG. 33, a smaller group of workers are present in work environment 2d, for example, as may typically be the case for a group conferencefollowing a project team meeting. A group conference space occupying alarge floor space section 118 u (see also FIG. 34) has been provided by(in comparison with FIG. 32) moving utility thresholds 24 a and 24 blaterally and by deployment of containers 8 h and 8 i to provide formaximum exposure of information presented on associated display boards(e.g. in the sense of a “theatre display”). Two workers 114 u and 114 vare shown working independently and privately in separate floor spacesections 118 z and 118 x defined by utility thresholds 24 a and 24 d,shelving units 14 a and 14 b (functioning as docking areas 38 a and 38b), and closed containers 8 g and 8 t, respectively. Floor spacesections 118 z and 118 x are made private through the use of a privacyscreen 78 a and 78 b (shown in phantom lines in FIG. 33), respectively.A floor space section 118 w is in use by an individual. worker 114 tseated at mobile table 16 within docking area 38 a. A floor spacesection 118 y is in shared use by two workers 114 w and 114 x workingcollaboratively. As shown in FIGS. 30 through 34, according to anypreferred embodiment, the work environment is readily configured andreconfigured to provide work spaces and workstations for individualworkers, small groups and large groups of workers involved in a widevariety of types of project work.

Referring to FIGS. 35 and 36, exemplary embodiments of utilitythresholds 24 and 24 z, respectively, associated with panel wall 280 areshown. In FIG. 35, utility threshold 24 has horizontal beam 49 andvertical post 50. Beam 49 includes lighting fixtures 56 and canopy 55;post 50 includes a utility delivery zone 92 shown as including atelephone 94 and outlets 96 for delivery of voice, power and datasignals (e.g. outlets or connections of any conventional type). Utilitydelivery zone 92 also includes an infrared port 98 shown incommunication with a portable computer 100 resting on mobile table 16.Utility threshold 24 includes mounting assembly 52 including glideblocks 102 that interface with rail 31 on top of panel wall 280. (Rail31 also includes a “stop” shown as block 104 a to keep utility threshold24 from sliding off of rail 31.) A utility infeed shown as flexibleconduit 74 is also provided in mounting assembly 52 for communicationwith utility delivery zone 92 of post 50. Flexible conduit 74 travelsalong the top of panel wall 280 in a trough or recess 106 (shown inphantom lines) as utility threshold 24 translates (i.e. slides alongrail 31). Flexible conduit 74 is coupled to and contains voice, power,data cabling (shown schematically) through panel wall 280. (According toa particularly preferred embodiment, the flexible conduit is of a typeavailable under the name CONDUFLEX available from KabelSchepp CableCarrier Systems.) Post 50 of utility threshold 24 also includes caster.58 at its base and a handle 108 along its side wall.

Also shown in FIG. 35 is a docking area 38 e in the form of a cabinet 12(shown in phantom lines) containing a retractable partition shown asroll-up privacy screen 78 (that can be retracted under spring tension).Privacy screen 78 is provided on a roller 112 and is of a rigidifiedfabric material and extends through vertical recess 80 in cabinet 12;privacy screen 78 includes a clasp 116 that engages handle 108 ofutility threshold 24 to hold privacy screen 78 in a withdrawn positionso as to define a private space within the associated workstation. Whenclasp 116 is disengaged from handle 108, spring tension will retractprivacy screen 78 through vertical recess 80 and onto the roller 112within cabinet 12.

Utility threshold 24 z is shown in FIG. 36, according to an alternativeembodiment (similar in certain respects to utility threshold 24 shown inFIG. 35). Mounting assembly 52 b of utility threshold 24 z includes aset of wheels 238 that travel within a track shown as a groove 120 inthe top of panel wall 280 to allow translating (i.e. rolling) motion ofutility threshold 24 z with respect to panel wall 280. In utilitythreshold 24 z, a retractable partition shown as privacy screen 78 issupplied on roller 112 within post 50 of utility threshold 24 z; clasp116 on cabinet 12 (shown in phantom lines) engages handle 108 of utilitythreshold 24 z to hold privacy screen 78 in a withdrawn position (i.e.against spring tension) so as to define a space within the associatedworkstation. As also shown according to the alternative embodiment ofFIG. 36, beam 49 of utility threshold 24 z includes two fluorescentlighting fixtures 60 under a canopy 79.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the frame members ofthe utility threshold (e.g. horizontal beam and vertical post) have aconstruction similar to the space frame systems disclosed in U.S. Pat.No. 5,511,348 titled “FURNITURE SYSTEM”, incorporated by referenceherein, and in U.S. Pat. No. 5,899,025 titled “FURNITURE SYSTEM”,incorporated by reference herein, and employed in the CONJUNCTION™ SpaceFrame available from Steelcase Inc. of Grand Rapids, Mich. According toalternative embodiments, the utility threshold and its associatedelements (e.g. frame members, mounting assembly, utility delivery zone,lighting fixtures, canopy, privacy screen, etc.) may have any of a widevariety of constructions.

According to alternative embodiments, the mounting structure for theinformation display system may be any of a wide variety of structures.For example, referring to FIG. 37, a mounting structure shown asshelving unit 28 is provided for information display system 6.Containers 8 of information display system 6 are coupled to set of rails30 mounted on shelving unit 28 (on the front and back) by mountingassembly 32 (e.g. of a type shown in FIG. 9). Stops shown as blocks 104b are provided at the ends of each rail 30 to stop the travel ofcontainers 8 (i.e. to prevent derailment of containers). Shelving unit28 also includes an opening 124 in its base between legs 126 configuredto allow the pass-through of mobile table 16 (or other like mobilearticle of furniture) at a level below containers 8. Shelving unit 28allows access to shelves 128 as well as the display (e.g. reveal andconceal) of information presented on display boards 10 of containers 8.Shelving unit 28 also provides a worksurface 68 (in the form of a shelf128) just below the bottom of containers 8. According to otheralternative embodiments, the mounting structure may be provided by aspace frame system of vertical posts and horizontal beams to which thetrack system can be attached.

As has been shown in other FIGURES, according to any preferredembodiment, the display panels associated with the containers of theinformation display system will be pivotally coupled so that one displaypanel may be pivoted with respect to the other display panel (within apredetermined path of travel, e.g. 90 degrees). FIGS. 38 through 40 areschematic diagrams intended to illustrate the movement of containers andassociated display panels of information display system according to anexemplary embodiment. As shown in FIG. 38, when a container 8 d isclosed (with both display panels parallel, in a closed condition), aforce applied transverse to container 8 d will tend to translate orslide container 8 d at mounting assembly 32 along track system or rail30 (but will not open container 8 d). As shown in FIG. 39, to open acontainer 8 e (after it is unlocked), a separating force is appliedrelative to each display panel 46 a and 46 b. According to aparticularly preferred embodiment, the container includes a “stopaction” mechanism (e.g. a detent arrangement) providing a tactileindication when a display panel has been pivoted to 45 degrees from theclosed condition and upon further application of the separating forceproviding a positive stop when a display panel has been pivoted to 90degrees from the closed condition. As shown in FIG. 40, container 8 e isin a fully open condition insofar as each display panel 46 a and 46 bhas been pivoted to 90 degrees from the closed position. When thecontainer is in a fully open condition, a force applied transverse tothe container at an appropriate position (i.e. at or near the mountingassembly) will tend to translate or slide container along the track orrail. To return the container to the closed condition, a closing forcemust be applied in the opposite direction of the separating force.

FIGS. 41 through 62 show the construction of a container and arrangementof display panels of the information display system according to apreferred and other exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Itis important to note, however, while preferred and exemplary embodimentsare shown, according to alternative embodiments, the information displaysystem may include any of a variety of types of information-containingstructures (represented schematically by the containers shown in theFIGURES) having of a wide variety of constructions and any of a widevariety of associated mechanisms beyond those shown and described, allof which are intended to fall within the scope of the present invention.Similarly, it is also important to note that the display panels (whichhave been represented schematically in the FIGURES) may be configured toinclude display boards or related structures or elements in any of awide variety of formats beyond those shown and described, all of whichalso are intended to fall within the scope of the present invention.According to alternative embodiments, any of a wide variety of displayboard carriers or mounting interfaces can be used within the container.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 41, eachcontainer has two display board carriers shown as lateral arm assemblies130 a and 130 b (shown in phantom lines in FIG. 41) that provide astructure of the container for each associated lateral display panel. Asshown in FIG. 19, display boards 10 i and 10 j, and 10 k and 10 m, canbe installed on each side of each lateral arm assembly 130 a and 130 b,respectively, so that a total of four display boards can be installedwithin the container. The container provides one interior surface 42 andone exterior surface 40 (not visible in FIG. 41) on each side of eachlateral arm assemblies 130 a and 130 b.

Referring to FIG. 41, a wire frame holder 134 may also be installedwithin the container by hooks 136 that fit around outer tube 176 ofpivot mechanism 36 of mounting assembly 32 of the container (a set ofcoacting wire frame locking members may be included to secure the wireframe holder to outer tube 176 according to alternative embodiments).The container also includes a supplemental display panel shown as atranslucent film panel 140 having a frame with a set of upper and lowergrooves 144 (shown in phantom lines) that slide onto the upper and lowerframe members 142 of wire frame holder 134. Panel 140 provides a phantomoverlay 146 (e.g. as may show indicia for use in association withinformation presented on interior surfaces of the container). As isapparent from FIG. 41, according to alternative embodiments, otheraccessories such as compartments, pouches, tablets, etc. may beinstalled within a container onto the wire frame holder.

In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 41, the container includes a lockingmechanism 147 to secure the contents of the container when it is in theclosed condition. As shown, locking mechanism 147 includes a slot 148 ona pivotally mounted front cap 150 of display panel 46 a of the containerthat engages a tab 214 projecting from a front piece 154 of displaypanel 46 b of the container. Engagement of the locking elements securesthe contents of the container; disengagement allows the container to beopened. According to any preferred and alternative embodiment, any of awide variety of coacting locking elements or other locking mechanismsknown to those of ordinary skill who review this disclosure may beemployed.

As shown in FIGS. 42 through 46, according to a preferred embodiment,the mounting assembly includes both a translating or slide mechanism 34and pivot mechanism 36. Slide mechanism 34 includes a set of glideblocks 102 (e.g. upper and lower) that engage a corresponding set ofrails 30 attached to a mounting structure such as a wall. (According toa particularly preferred embodiment, the slide mechanism of mountingassembly and rail includes a linear guide system commercially availableunder the name AccuGlide from the Linear Motion Systems Division ofThomson Industries, Inc.) As shown, rail 30 may be provided with balldetents 164 that give tactile or audible feedback and a slight holdingforce when in contact with glide block 102; rail 30 may also be givenvisual indicia 166 that indicate distances of travel or position of thecontainer along rail 30. According to alternative embodiments,translating motion of containers with respect to mounting structures maybe effected with any of a variety of other mechanisms, sliding orrolling, such as rotating wheels traveling in a groove, etc. It shouldbe noted that the mounting assemblies for both the containers of theinformation display system and for other mobile elements such as utilitythresholds may share parts or basic design elements.

Referring to FIGS. 42 through 46, each lateral arm assembly 130 a and130 b of the container is coupled to pivot mechanism 36 of the mountingassembly so that one lateral arm assembly 130 a can be pivoted withrespect to the other lateral arm assembly 130 b. To each glide block 102of the mounting assembly is mounted a fixed base hub 162 (e.g. byfasteners shown as screws). As shown in FIG. 42, pivot mechanism 36includes a fixed inner frame tube 170 installed at each end within basehub 162 (by fasteners shown as screws 174 a) and a pair of outer tubes176 a and 176 b, each associated with a base frame member 180 of alateral arm assembly. Each of outer tubes 176 a and 176 b is mounted (inan offset fashion shown in FIGS. 47 and 48) to base frame 180 of eachlateral arm assembly 130 a and 130 b and fitted over fixed inner tube170; each of outer tubes 176 a and 176 b is also independently rotatablewith respect to fixed inner tube 170 within a designated range ofmotion. Outer tubes 176 a and 176 b have serrations 298 (e.g. smallcompliant indexing teeth) that gently engage at the interface wheninstalled onto fixed inner tube 170 to provide a slight degree ofholding force between each lateral arm assembly 130 a and 130 b inordinary operation (but that can be overcome when one display panel isto be selectively pivoted with respect to the other display panel).

Fixed inner tube has a set of slots 182 having a profile shown as detentprofile 184 and into which unthreaded ends 186 of guide pins 174threadably fixed (in holes 187) to outer tubes 176 a and 176 b areinstalled into fixed inner tube 170. Detent profile 184 of slots 182 isshaped (as shown) to provide coaction with guide pins 174 and to definethe path of travel of each lateral arm assembly of the container.Referring to FIGS. 42, 43 and 46, for example, detent profile 184 hasrounded ends 185 connected by a flat center. In FIGS. 44 and 45, showingthe coaction of the upper outer tube 176 a and lower outer tube 176 bwith the inner tube 170, the path of travel for each lateral armassembly ends with a physical stop when each lateral arm assembly hasbeen pivoted to a certain designated positions (e.g. the closedcondition and 90 degrees from the closed condition); the detent profilemay also be given a shape to provide a tactile “stop” or “pause” (e.g. aslight holding force) and audible feedback when the correspondinglateral arm assembly has been pivoted to other certain designatedpositions (for example, 45 degrees from the closed condition). Accordingto any preferred embodiment, the central portion of the detent profileincludes a compliant material and is slightly smaller in width than thediameter of the unthreaded end of the guide pins, while the rounded endsare substantially the same diameter as the unthreaded end of the guidepins.

Referring to FIGS. 47 through 49, a lateral arm assemblies 130 a and 130b of the container are shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Eachof lateral arm assemblies 130 a and 130 b has a similar construction,including base frame 180 coupled to an outer tube 176 a and 176 b, anend frame 188, and upper and lower outer frame members 190 a and 190 b.End frame 188 is mounted at the distal ends of (and between) upper andlower outer frame members 190 a and 190 b. As shown, upper and lowerouter frame members 190 a and 190 b have a channel shape with retainingslots 194 within which end frame 188 is secured to form an end frameassembly 196 (shown in FIG. 49). End frame assembly 196 is then slidonto base frame 180 (which provides upper and lower tracks that securelyand adjustably retain upper and lower frame members 190 a and 190 b ofend frame assembly 196 in a relatively tightfrictional/interference-type fit). End frame 188 and base frame 180 eachinclude spring clips 198 (e.g. containing spring elements or compliantmaterial providing a spring effect). As shown in FIG. 49, display board10 i, 10 j, 10 k, and 10 m (shown in phantom lines) are securely butreleasably held within container by spring clips 198, which engageinclude a compliant portion intended to firmly “grip” the edges of eachdisplay board when end frame assembly 196 is slid tightly and fully ontobase frame 180. By virtue of the adjustable (e.g. slidable adjustment)of the lateral arm assembly, display boards of varying sizes can beinstalled within the container. (As shown in FIG. 52, display boards canbe installed either in landscape or portrait mode.) Moreover, the heightor position of display boards within (e.g. carried by) the container canbe adjusted in the vertical direction. As shown in FIG. 41, the springclips may include a visual indicator marking (e.g. in the form of anotch or line) that may correspond with an indexing marking or line onthe display board to facilitate an intended placement of the displayboard within the container.

As shown in FIG. 47, front cap 150 of lateral arm assembly 130 a hasupper and lower tabs 204 each having a pivot pin 206 to install ontoupper and lower tabs 208 at the ends of upper and lower outer framemembers 190 a and 190 b of one end frame assembly 196, each having acorresponding aperture 210 a into which a pivot pin (not shown) is snapfit for pivotal movement. Front cap 150 includes a face 212 onto which alabel or other designation can be applied. As shown in FIG. 48, frontpiece 154 provides a handle 300; front piece 154 includes upper andlower tabs 216 each having an aperture 210 b installed onto ends 208 ofupper and lower tabs 210 a at the ends of upper and lower outer framemembers 190 a and 190 b of the other end frame assembly 196. Aperture210 b of front piece 154 may be snap fit or press fit onto tabs 210 a.

Referring to FIGS. 50 through 51, an alternative embodiment of acontainer is shown, similar in basic respects to the container shown inFIGS. 47 through 49. Container 8w includes a pair of lateral armassemblies 132 a and 132 b each including base frame 180 (as in FIGS. 47through 49) and end frame assembly 196. End frame assembly 196 includesa vertical front handle 312 (having a “[” shape). Each front handle 312has a curved recess 201; into one of the front handles of a container, alocking element can be installed, for example a cylinder lock 200 (e.g.tumbler actuated by a key) providing a conventional locking actionwherein one front handle is secured to the other front handle. Referringto FIGS. 53 through 54, the container includes a receptacle shown as a“mail slot” receptacle 220 accessible from the front of the container atfront handle 312. Receptacle 220 is formed within end frame betweenupper and lower outer frame members 190 (and is of a size that iscapable of containing a sufficient volume of “mail”, i.e. paper sheets,envelopes, magazines and other publications, etc.). One receptacle 220can be provided in association with each lateral arm assembly 132 a or132 b of the container.

Referring to FIG. 55, according to an alternative embodiment, acontainer of the information display system can-include carriers orlateral arm assemblies 132 a and 132 b configured to employ a displayboard arrangement including four display boards 10 n, 10 p, 10 q, and 10r (of a smaller size, e.g. one-quarter the size of the regular displayboards), for example in either portrait mode or landscape mode. Thelateral arm assemblies each include a centrally located spring clip 222(having a “+” shape) that is capable of engaging and securing “holding”each of four smaller display boards in combination with spring clips 198of base frame 180 and end frame 196. Clip 222 may be installed (e.g. bya press or “snap” fit) within either of slots 181 a or 181 b of baseframe 180 as needed, depending upon the size and orientation of thedisplay boards (see FIG. 55).

FIGS. 56 through 57 show a container 8 y according to an alternativeembodiment of the information display system. Container 8 y isconfigured to hold a single display board 10 w and is coupled to asingle rail 30 by a mounting assembly including slide mechanism 34 (of atype similar to as shown in FIG. 42 having guide block 102 and a basehub 162 x) and pivot mechanism 36. Base hub 162 x of the mountingassembly includes a set of magnets 226 on one lateral surface 228 and acorresponding metal strip (not visible) on the other lateral surface230, so that one or more adjacent containers can be joined or “ganged”together (see, e.g., FIG. 10). Pivot mechanism 36 includes a frame tube304 which fits within a central vertical hole 244 in base hub 162 x.Frame tube 304 has a cap 236 with a star-shaped upper profile formed bya series of triangular index tabs 240 or projections that engage acorresponding pattern of index slots 242 around the perimeter of hole244 in base hub 162 x when frame tube 170 is installed into hole 244.Frame tube 170 also includes an elongate axial slot 306 into which alateral arm assembly shown as a frame plate 246 can be installed andsecured by a series of threaded fasteners 174 a. Frame plate 246includes a base 250 from which project a series of diagonal fingers 252.

Display board 10 w has two flat exterior surfaces with a central coreproviding a series of diagonal passages 254 (see FIG. 62) that open ontoall the edges of the display boards (however, for aesthetic or otherreasons, the passages do not need to open onto all edges of the boards).According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the display board willbe a rigid polycarbonate structured sheet of a type commerciallyavailable from under the name “CO-EX” from CO-EX Corp. of Rocky Hill,Conn. or of another similar construction available from other suppliers.As shown in FIGS. 57 through 59, diagonal fingers 252 of frame plate 246fit within corresponding diagonal passages 254 to secure display board10 w in container 8 y. As shown in FIGS. 57 through 59, the displayboard can be installed in landscape mode, portrait mode, or at any of awide variety of orientations and discrete height levels (provided by thepassages). According to alternative embodiments, the display board maybe provided with a greater or lesser number of passages in any of avariety of sizes, patterns and orientations.

Pivotal adjustment of display board 10 w within container 8 y iseffected by lifting frame tube 170 within hole 244 of base hub 162 todisengage index tabs 240 from index slots 242, then rotating frame tube170 to another adjustment position where index tabs 240 can engage indexslots 244 and lowering frame tube 170 back into hole 234; eight discreteadjustment positions spaced at 45 degree intervals are providedaccording to the exemplary embodiment (but according to alternativeembodiments, other adjustment positions may be provided).

Referring to FIGS. 57 through 61, accessories such as vertical handle312, a ball handle 314 or a receptacle box 322 (each of which areinstalled onto display board by fingers or projections 318 are insertedwithin diagonal passages 254) may be provided for a display board asshown in FIG. 56. FIGS. 60 and 61 show receptacle box 322 which isadapted for attachment to display board 10 w. Receptacle box 322includes a large central slot shown as “mail” slot 220 and upper andlower apertures 324, though which horizontal arms 326 of a holdingmember 327 are inserted; to mount receptacle box 322 to display board 10w, diagonal arms 328 of holding member 327 are inserted into passages254 of display board 10 w. An object 221 (e.g. a piece of paper) can beinserted into slot 220 and held in receptacle box 322.

FIGS. 63 through 66 show a mobile workstation 4 p containing informationdisplay system 6 and utility threshold 24 according to an exemplaryembodiment of the present invention. Mobile workstation 4 p includesshelving unit 14 (on a set of casters 58) providing docking area 38 afor containers 8 of information display system 6. Containers 8 arecoupled to a set of internal rails 30 mounted on an end wall 284 ofshelving unit 14 and a base wall 286 for translating movement withinmobile workstation 4 p. As shown, base wall 286 (on a set of casters 58)is pivotally coupled to shelving unit 14 by hinges (as shown in FIG.67). Utility threshold 24 is coupled by mounting assembly 52 (shown as avertical mounting plate 53 including a glide block) to a track systemshown as a set of external rails 31 mounted on vertical surfaces of bothend wall 284 of shelving unit 14 and base wall 286 for translatingmovement within a defined path of travel. End wall 284 (on a set ofcasters 58) is pivotally coupled to base wall 286 as shown in FIGS. 63and 66. As shown in FIG. 64, a set of handles 294 provide “stops” at theends of external rails 31. Utility threshold 24 includes horizontal beam49 extending into workstation 4 p from vertical mounting plate 53; beam49 provides a mounting structure for canopy 55 and lighting fixtures 56.Shelving unit 14 also serves as docking area 38 a for utility threshold24. Mobile table 16 can be included within workstation 4 p.

The hinge and rail detail for mobile workstation 4 p according to aparticularly preferred embodiment is shown schematically in FIG. 67.Rails 30 for the containers are mounted on the inside of base wall 286and end wall 284; external rails 31 for utility threshold 24 are mountedon the outside of base wall 286 and end wall 284. Hinges 296 areincluded within internal rails 30; one portion of internal rail 30(affixed to base wall 286) extends across the interface of base wall 286and end wall 284. A clearance aperture 299 allows the portion of rail 30to have clearance into end wall 284 when pivoted with respect to basewall 286. Diagonally tapered ends of external rails 31, which separatewhen the mobile workstation is stowed, are arranged to keep utilitythreshold 24 z from sliding out of the docked position. (According toalternative embodiments,.other hinge and rail mechanisms may be employedto provide the desired hinge action while facilitating the full use ofrails for the containers and utility threshold.)

Referring to FIGS. 65 and 66, mobile workstation 4 p can be stowed(closed and compressed) for transport or storage by stowing containers 8and utility threshold 24 within docking area 38 a (which is givensufficient internal capacity) and then folding end wall 284 ontoshelving unit 14 at hinges 296 so that base wall 286 and side wall 285envelop shelving unit 14 (a locking or latching mechanism can beprovided to secure the mobile workstation in the stowed condition and/orthe open condition). When stowed for transport or storage, mobileworkstation 4 p can be pulled or pushed using handles 294. FIG. 66 showsthat while each mobile workstation is a “stand-alone” unit, groups ofmobile workstations may conveniently be associated for purposes ofstorage.

According to any preferred embodiment, the information display systemprovides an organizational framework intended to promote and advance theefficient use, display and storage of information and layers ofinformation on display panels (e.g., “information persistence,”regardless of the format by which the information is placed onassociated display boards) in the work environment. According to anypreferred embodiment of the information display system, each displaypanel will include at least one display board adapted to contain orpresent information. As will become apparent to those of ordinary skillwho review this disclosure, the display boards may be provided in any ofa wide variety or formats, or may be adapted to display information inany of a wide variety of formats and/or media; a wide variety ofconfigurations are possible for the information display system,employing variations of size, shape, orientation, arrangement, mountinginterfaces and structures, etc., as well as variations in the deploymentof display boards. According to any preferred embodiment, theinformation display system will facilitate the dynamic configurabilityand reconfigurability of work spaces, workstations and workenvironments, in territorial appearance and contextual appearance (e.g.as scenery or “sets” can be reconfigured in a theatre play).

According to alternative embodiments, the information display system canbe implemented through a wide variety of mounting arrangements thatallow for translating movement of the containers and associated displayboards with respect to a wide variety of mounting structures, forexample, floors, architectural walls, panel walls, systems furniture,space frames, other articles of furniture, etc. The variety of mountingstructures that may be used with the information display systemillustrates the flexibility and adaptability of the information displaysystem to a wide variety of work environments. Moreover, although in theexemplary embodiments the mounting assembly and track system for thecontainers of the information display system are preferably arranged forlinear movement along the mounting structure, according to alternativeembodiments, the track system of the information display system may beconfigured for wholly or partially curved movement (e.g. as necessary toconform to a curved wall or other mounting structure alone or incombination to facilitate the movement of containers from oneorientation or plane to another within a work environment.)

It is important to note that the use of the terms “display panel” or“display board” are not meant as terms of limitation, insofar as any“panel” or “board” or like structure having a decorative or functionaluse or application is intended to be within the scope of the term. Forexample, the use of the term “display board” is intended as a convenientreference for any such “board” or structure, which may also be viewedsynonymously with the term “work board” or other like terms. Accordingto any preferred embodiment, the display panel or display board isconfigured in a generally symmetrical basic form so that the designationof a “front surface” and “back surface” is essentially arbitrary anddependent upon the orientation within the information display system.Exemplary display boards may be formed of any of a variety or materialsor have any of a variety of sizes and shapes, constructions (with any ofa variety of properties, such as weight, strength, rigidity, acousticproperties, flammability, etc. suitable for the intended application)and mounting interfaces. As will be apparent to those who review thisdisclosure, the outer surfaces of the display boards may be providedwith a wide variety of surface treatments (e.g. tackable orrepositionable adhesive, clear film overlay or “photo album”, clear film“pocket”, writable clear film, cork or tack board, peg board, magneticboard, marker board, dry erase or “white” board, paper or paper tablet,projection screen, graphics display, cloth, etc.) in a wide variety ofcombinations (i.e. with one'surface differing in whole or in part fromthe other surface) that may be suited or adapted to a wide variety offunctional and decorative purposes according to the preferred and otheralternative exemplary embodiments of the present invention. According toany preferred embodiment, the display boards and associated structuresand systems are configured for ease and flexibility of use. (e.g.recording, mapping, transformation, capture, etc.), display (e.g.sharing and communicating), and storage—information persistence—as wellas of mounting and removal from associated mounting structures (such asthe containers).

It is important to note that the term “information” is intended to be abroad term and not a term of limitation. The term “information” mayinclude information of any type or form or combination, and is meant tocover any use of any type of media or any type of representation thatcan be associated with a display board (or work board). It is alsoimportant to note that the terms “worksurface” and “work space” areintended to be given broad scope and are not terms of limitation. It isalso important to note that the construction and arrangement of theelements of the system as shown in the preferred and other exemplaryembodiments is illustrative only.

Although only a few embodiments of the present inventions have beendescribed in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art whoreview this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modificationsare possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapesand proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mountingarrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, protocols, etc.)without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages ofthe subject matter recited in the claims. Accordingly, all suchmodifications are intended to be included within the scope of thepresent invention as defined in the appended claims. The order orsequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re-sequencedaccording to alternative embodiments. In the claims, anymeans-plus-function clause is intended to cover the structures describedherein as performing the recited function and not only structuralequivalents but also equivalent structures. Other substitutions,modifications, changes and omissions may be made in the design,operating conditions and arrangement of the preferred and otherexemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the presentinventions as expressed in the appended claims.

1.-56. (canceled)
 57. A movable apparatus for use in a work space withat least one wall and a floor comprising: an overhead frame coupled tothe wall; an upstanding frame supported by the floor; and a partitioncoupled to the upstanding frame; wherein the overhead frame projectsinto the work space; and wherein the upstanding frame is movablerelative to the wall; so that the partition provides division of spacewithin the work space and so that the privacy within the work space canbe modulated by movement of the partition relative to the wall.
 58. Theapparatus of claim 57 wherein the partition comprises a screen.
 59. Theapparatus of claim 58 wherein the screen is positioned at leastpartially in a generally vertical orientation.
 60. The apparatus ofclaim 57 wherein the overhead frame comprises a canopy.
 61. Theapparatus of claim 57 wherein at least one of the overhead frame, theupstanding frame, and the partition are configured to be moved between afirst position intended to enhance privacy within the work space and asecond position intended to open access to the workspace.
 62. Theapparatus of claim 57 wherein the overhead frame comprises a generallyhorizontal beam and the upstanding frame comprises a generally verticalpost.
 63. The apparatus of claim 57 wherein the upstanding frame isadapted for movement along a predefined path to deliver utilities to atleast one portion of a work area.
 64. The apparatus of claim 57 whereinthe wall is a partial height panel having a top and wherein the overheadframe is coupled to the top of the partial height panel for translatingmovement along the top of the wall.
 65. An apparatus for use in a workspace providing a base structure comprising: a first end coupled to thebase structure; a second end configured for movement relative to thebase structure; an overhead structure adjacent to the first end; apartition adjacent to the second end; and a wheel assembly adjacent tothe second end; wherein the partition is configured to move from a firstposition to a second position in order to define space and to enhanceprivacy in the work space.
 66. The apparatus of claim 65 wherein thesecond end is adapted for movement along a predefined path to deliverutilities to at least one portion of the work space.
 67. The apparatusof claim 65 wherein the overhead structure comprises a canopy.
 68. Theapparatus of claim 65 wherein the partition comprises a screen.
 69. Theapparatus of claim 68 wherein the screen is configured to be positionedat least partially in a generally vertical orientation.
 70. Theapparatus of claim 65 wherein the partition comprises a flexible web.71. The apparatus of claim 65 wherein the partition is configured todefine a boundary within the work space by movement relative to the basestructure.
 72. The apparatus of claim 65 wherein the base structurecomprises a partial height wall and the overhead structure projects fromthe first end into the work space.
 73. The apparatus of claim 65 whereinthe base structure is a wall and the first end is coupled to the wall.74. The apparatus of claim 73 wherein the first end is movably attachedto the wall for translating movement relative to the wall.
 75. Theapparatus of claim 73 wherein the wall is a partial wall and the firstend is coupled to the partial wall to allow rolling movement of thesecond end.
 76. The apparatus of claim 65 wherein the base structurecomprises a vertical structure and the first end is coupled to thevertical structure to allow rolling movement of the second end.
 77. Theapparatus of claim 65 wherein the overhead structure comprises agenerally horizontal beam adjacent the first end.
 78. The apparatus ofclaim 77 further comprising a generally vertical post adjacent thesecond end.
 79. The apparatus of claim 65 further comprising a tracksystem coupled to the base structure and wherein the first end ismovable along the track system.